A pre-counselling interview is an initial interaction between a counsellor and a client that takes place before the formal counselling process begins. It is an important component of assessment in counselling and guidance because it helps the counsellor understand the client’s concerns, background, expectations, and readiness for counselling. The information gathered during this interview provides a foundation for planning appropriate counselling interventions and establishing a productive counselling relationship. The primary purpose of a pre-counselling interview is to obtain basic information about the client and identify the reason for seeking counselling. The counsellor explores the presenting problem, its duration, intensity, and effect on the client’s personal, social, educational, or occupational life. The interview may also help determine whether the client’s concerns are appropriate for counselling or whether referral to another professional or service is necessary.